An Understated Dominance by Marina Vittori

Contestant number four, Titus McAllister, was a burly figure in a black tank top. His muscles were like chiseled stone. A vicious scar ran from the corner of his eye to his mouth. It added a menacing edge to his imposing presence.

On the other side, contestant number 29 was a strikingly handsome young man named Aldrian Lockwood. He appeared to be in his 20s, with long flowing hair and an azure steel sword in his hand. He looked suave and sophisticated, like a leading man from a classic romance. 1

As Aldrian made his entrance, many female spectators erupted into cheers. His popularity was evident from their enthusiastic reaction.

He greeted each cheer with a smile, signing autographs and posing for photos. His presence felt more like a celebrity at a fan meeting than a contestant in the ring.

Titus said nothing. He watched Aldrian with a calm, unflinching gaze.

After a while, Oron grew impatient. He stopped Aldrian’s endless fan interactions and called for the match to begin.

The moment Oron’s words fell, Titus, who had been quietly observing, sprang into action. He propelled himself forward like a cannonball with a single step and closed the distance to Aldrian.

His fists began to rain down with explosive force. They struck like thunder and a rapid barrage of blows that blurred in the air.

immediately sobered up. His expression changed as he raised his arms to block the barrage of

were incredibly fast and powerful. Each punch landed with the

was forced to retreat, and he barely managed to block the blows. He had no

the upper hand. He excelled in close combat, and his strength made his punches extremely effective at

However, his arrogance led him to underestimate Titus.

to take a beating. Soon,

out blood, and his face turned pale. Before he could catch

saying “kick a man when he was down” couldn’t be more fitting. Titus exploited Aldrian’s weakness and continued his fierce attack

at Titus’s nonstop assault. He gathered his true energy and finally drew his azure steel sword while taking

was forced back a few steps, and he spat out blood. But he managed to slash Titus’ clothes with his sword, temporarily forcing

it’s my turn!” Aldrian spat blood on the ground. His once- handsome face was twisted

didn’t respond. Instead, he closed the distance again. His fists hammered down with relentless force

and unleashed his ultimate move. He swung his long sword, and true energy burst out of his body like

ring. The ring of sword shadows spun wildly toward Titus at